(Family Features) When it comes to getting energy from the food you eat, it’s no secret that protein packs a powerful punch. However, research shows certain plant-based proteins, like peanuts, may carry additional benefits.

According to a Harvard School of Public Health study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, substituting plant-based proteins like peanuts for animal proteins and low-quality carbohydrates can result in lowering diabetes risk by 7-21 percent. Because peanuts are known as a low glycemic index food due to their slow digestion that causes sugar to gradually be released into the bloodstream, they can have positive effects on blood sugar control.

Find more nutritional information and ways to include peanuts in your diet at gapeanuts.com.

Chicken Pad Thai

Servings: 4

1 pound chicken breast

freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce

3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon peanut butter

1/4 cup water

1 medium zucchini, spiralized (about 1 cup)

2 medium carrots, spiralized (about 1 cup)

1 cup cooked pad thai stir-fry noodles

1 cup bean sprouts

1 cup thinly sliced cabbage

1 lime, quartered

1/4 cup unsalted peanuts, crushed

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Season chicken with pepper, to taste. In large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and cook chicken until fully cooked and juices are clear. Remove chicken from pan and allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing.